2014. Ready or not, we are here. It’s the time for new resolutions, breaking old habits and making commitments to be better. We challenge you to take a chance on fitness and follow through with your goal by participating in the FRESH 15K or 5K race on March 1.

With less than seven weeks until race day, if you get started now, you could be celebrating with hundreds of other runners and spectators on race day as you cross the finish line.

If you want to get started now, the first thing to do is to make a commitment and find a training plan. Our website ( www.FRESH15k.com ) has links to great 15K training plans for novice, intermediate and advanced runners. We also held a running clinic on Saturday at Racquet & Jog and heard training and nutrition tips from Bob Hepler, The University of Texas at Tyler track and field coach.

The great thing about the FRESH 15 is that you are not only helping yourself, but you’re helping others as well. One hundred percent of race day proceeds will be split evenly between the American Heart Association and Bethesda Health Clinic, two amazing charities that work hard to help others, many of which are your neighbors and friends here in Tyler.

Help us raise awareness of their efforts by participating March 1 by volunteering or running in the race.

In upcoming stories, I will use this avenue to share heartwarming stories from local runners, and training tips to keep you motivated until race day. Stay tuned and keep running.